WithWithDefensive driving basicsDefensive driving basics 20132013

Maintain proper levels for all fluids. Make sure all tires are in good condition,

are properly inflated, and have proper tread depth.

Check regularly for cracked hoses, belts and frayed wires.

Make sure windows, mirrors, directional signals, head, tail, and brake lights are clean and not broken.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING BASICS DEFENSIVE DRIVING BASICS

Stay alert to changes

Look well ahead

Observe the entire situation

1a

DEFENSIVE DRIVING BASICS DEFENSIVE DRIVING BASICS

Recognize potential hazards

Decide on an appropriate response

Carry out your plan

1bWhat would your response to this situation be?

Slow Down on Rain-slicked Streets Hydroplaning is a frightening experience and can cause

serious and fatal crashes

Maintain a Safe Following Distance- minimum 4 seconds Look out for road construction and detours as most road

construction take place during the summer

Slow Down Even in Good Weather Watch out for children playing in the streets, people will

be out cycling, skating or walking

 

What is the number one cause of vehicle crashes in the US ?

REDUCE YOUR DRIVING SPEED IN ADVERSE ROAD AND/OR WEATHER CONDITIONS

ENTER CURVES SLOWLY

REDUCE YOUR SPEED BEFORE ENTERING AN EXIT/ENTRANCE RAMP

DRIVE SLOWLY WITH A LOADED TRAILER

SLOW DOWN IN WORK ZONES

Keep the windshield and mirrors clean and clear

Use mirrors

Constantly scan traffic to the front and sides

2a

Look 10 to 12 seconds ahead in the city

Look further ahead on the highway

2bWhat should you be looking for ?

Use mirrors before changing speed or position in traffic

Signal all turns and lane changes

2c

Keep signal on until move is completed

Keep lights on for safety

Avoid distractions

2dWhat are some common distractions ?

Keep your eyes moving – continually scan

Check all mirrors

Watch the taillights

3a

Bikes and pedestrians

Driveways, alleyways, parking lot entrances/exits

Overhead wires, delivery vans, and dumpsters

3b

Make sure there’s enough space

When stopped in traffic, wait to proceed until the vehicle ahead has moved

3c

Watch your speed

Plan your route accordingly

3d

Avoid unmarked or low clearance underpasses

Approach carefully never assume the marked height is

correct

4a

Watch for signs of road repair

Watch for “bridging”

If there isn’t enough space, pull over and use another route

4b

It takes longer to cross due to additional length and slower acceleration

Go slow and watch for vehicles, pedestrians, people, bikes, etc.

At busy unmarked intersections stop, assume you don’t have the right of way

5a

When approaching a controlled intersection stop two times

First, at the stop sign or light

Second, after easing forward to a point where you can clearly see oncoming traffic

5c

Size up the traffic conditions

Signal early

Watch for an opening

6a

Build up speed

Watch the mirrors

Watch for oncoming traffic

6b

Signal early

Get into the turn lane as soon as possible

6c

Check mirrors

Shift down to a lower gear

Make the exit

6d

Drive Drive Safely Or NotSafely Or Not

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